SARATOGA SPRINGS —The Saratoga Foundation for Innovative Learning, although new this year, is looking to do big things.
The foundation was originally comprised of concerned citizens within the district who saw the meaning behind having a dynamic education system. Together, they then teamed up and raised money that would eventually fund innovative learning ideas that were not accounted for in the school budget.
The grants range anywhere from $500-$5,000 and onTuesday were awarded to three chosen individuals.
The first grant winner was elementary school music teacher, Maura Neagu. Neagu suggested the grant money be put toward purchasing special kits known as “Goldie Blox.”
Included in these kits are toys that a girl typically would enjoy. What is unique about the kits is that they are designed with the intentions of encouraging more girls into the fields of math and science through a project-based learning style. In a Goldie Blox, toys such as dollhouses come with an instruction manual as to how the parts can be assembled.
“Girls don’t just have to play with dolls,” said Michael Picirillo, superintendent of schools.
The grant will be roughly $1,000 and 20-30 kits are expected to be purchased.
At the middle school level, grant money will be issued to obtain a class set of ukuleles. The ukulele, not too complex of an instrument, is something that everyone can enjoy playing. Music teacher, John Doyle, grasped this opportunity and used it to expand upon the number of students who are involved musically. The grant will be for $1,470.
The third and final individual selected to receive grant money was Leann Donelan. Donelan envisioned that the money would be used to aid her class’ trip to Washington, D.C. The $2,000 grant would not only fund the travel, but also assist in her class teaming up with Garnett River to create a website based on the students’ experiences. Courtesy of the grant, a unique learning opportunity is launched
As seen, Saratoga Foundation for Innovative Learning allows for students to partake in additional educational opportunities and ensures a better quality learning experience. It is their mission to fund innovative ideas that further learning in this community.
Saratoga Foundation for Innovative Learning is made possible through the help of fundraisers and donations.
“The foundation’s main objective is to obtain $100,000 in one calendar year,” said Picirillo.
Thinking ahead, the foundation only hopes to expand from here. This past vote consisted of a board having to choose three applicants from 17, but in future years, the board is hoping for that number to increase.
Fundraisers are anticipated to be held more, and grant money, if all goes accordingly, will increase as well.
